The Treaty of Tartu (1920): Finland’s Border Agreement with Soviet Russia

The Treaty of Tartu, signed on October 14, 1920, between Finland and Soviet Russia, marked the first formal agreement defining Finland’s eastern border following its independence. The treaty provided Finland with legal recognition of its sovereignty from its powerful neighbor and secured territorial gains in certain regions. For those studying for the Finnish citizenship test, understanding the Treaty of Tartu offers insight into Finland’s early diplomatic efforts and the importance of national borders in defining the country’s sovereignty.

Background: Finland’s Independence and the Need for a Border Agreement

Following Finland’s declaration of independence in 1917, relations with Soviet Russia were complex. Finland sought to establish itself as a sovereign state, distinct from the turbulent political climate of post-revolutionary Russia. Although Soviet Russia formally recognized Finland’s independence on December 31, 1917, both countries needed to address border disputes that remained unresolved, particularly in eastern Karelia and the Petsamo region.

The end of World War I and the Russian Civil War further complicated the situation, as new borders were being drawn across Europe. With Soviet Russia focused on internal conflicts, Finnish leaders saw an opportunity to secure favorable terms regarding contested territories. Negotiations for a formal treaty began in Tartu, Estonia, in 1920.

Key Negotiations and Terms of the Treaty

The Treaty of Tartu negotiations aimed to resolve territorial disputes while ensuring peace between the two neighbors. Finnish and Soviet negotiators, representing very different interests, reached a compromise that balanced Finland’s territorial ambitions with Soviet Russia’s need for stability.

1. Finnish Territorial Gains:
   • The Treaty of Tartu granted Finland sovereignty over the Petsamo (Pechenga) region on the Arctic Ocean coast, providing Finland with valuable access to the Barents Sea. This access enabled Finland to develop trade routes to the Arctic, a strategic asset in establishing its economic independence.
   • Petsamo was especially important to Finland’s fishing and mining industries, and its Arctic coastline gave Finland a northern gateway to the world.
2. Eastern Karelia and Soviet Retention of Core Territories:
   • Finland had hoped to gain additional territories in eastern Karelia, an area with cultural and historical ties to Finland, as well as a significant Finnish-speaking population. However, Soviet negotiators refused to cede these areas, as they were strategically important to Russia.
   • As a compromise, the Treaty of Tartu allowed for some limited cultural autonomy for Finnish-speaking communities within Soviet Karelia. Although Finland did not gain sovereignty over eastern Karelia, this agreement represented a significant diplomatic achievement and acknowledged the cultural significance of the Karelian population.
3. Recognition of Finnish Independence and Borders:
   • The Treaty of Tartu formally recognized Finland’s independence and established Finland’s eastern border with Soviet Russia. This formal recognition by Soviet Russia solidified Finland’s sovereignty and legitimacy on the international stage, easing concerns about future Russian interference.
   • The treaty created a buffer zone between Finland and Soviet Russia, reducing the risk of cross-border conflicts and fostering stability in the region.
4. Non-Aggression and Neutrality Provisions:
   • The Treaty of Tartu included provisions for non-aggression and neutrality between the two countries. Both sides agreed not to support any anti-government factions within the other’s borders, aiming to maintain peace and avoid interference in each other’s domestic affairs.
   • These clauses were essential to Finnish security, as they provided Finland with assurances that Soviet Russia would respect its sovereignty and refrain from engaging in subversive activities within Finland.

Impact and Significance of the Treaty of Tartu

The Treaty of Tartu was a milestone in Finnish diplomacy, shaping Finland’s foreign policy and border security for years to come. The agreement had both immediate and long-term impacts on Finland’s national identity, economy, and geopolitical position.

1. Strengthening of Finnish Sovereignty: The treaty’s formal recognition of Finnish independence by Soviet Russia reinforced Finland’s status as a sovereign nation. This acknowledgment was critical for Finland’s international legitimacy, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Russia’s intentions after the Bolshevik Revolution. The treaty helped Finland build diplomatic relations with other countries and assert its role as an independent state.
2. Economic Development and Access to the Arctic: Gaining the Petsamo region opened up significant economic opportunities for Finland. The Arctic coastline facilitated trade and transportation, allowing Finland to establish new trade routes to northern Europe and beyond. The region’s natural resources, including its fisheries and mineral deposits, became important assets for Finland’s economy, supporting growth in the northern part of the country.
3. National Identity and the Karelian Question: While Finland achieved significant territorial gains, the unresolved “Karelian question” continued to be a sensitive issue in Finnish society. The cultural and historical connection between Finland and Karelia fueled aspirations for unification among some Finns. However, the Treaty of Tartu marked a pragmatic compromise, prioritizing stability over expansionist ambitions. The treaty balanced Finland’s territorial goals with the need for peaceful coexistence with its powerful neighbor.
4. Precedent for Finnish Neutrality: The non-aggression and neutrality provisions in the Treaty of Tartu established a foundation for Finland’s policy of neutrality. Finland sought to maintain balanced relations with both East and West, a principle that would become essential to its foreign policy throughout the 20th century, particularly during the Cold War. This policy of neutrality allowed Finland to navigate its position between larger powers, preserving its autonomy and peace.
5. Legacy of Finnish-Russian Relations: The Treaty of Tartu was the first of several important agreements between Finland and Soviet Russia. Although future conflicts would arise, including the Winter War of 1939-1940, the Treaty of Tartu set a precedent for diplomatic negotiations. The treaty demonstrated Finland’s ability to achieve favorable outcomes through diplomacy, even with a much larger and more powerful neighbor.

Conclusion: The Treaty of Tartu’s Role in Finnish History

The Treaty of Tartu was a significant achievement for Finland, securing its independence, defining its borders, and establishing peaceful relations with Soviet Russia. The treaty’s impact on Finnish sovereignty, economy, and foreign policy shaped the country’s development and reinforced its identity as a neutral, independent state. Although tensions with Soviet Russia would later resurface, the Treaty of Tartu remains a symbol of Finland’s diplomatic skill and commitment to self-determination.

For those studying for the Finnish citizenship test, the Treaty of Tartu exemplifies Finland’s early efforts to protect its sovereignty and establish itself as a respected member of the international community. The treaty’s legacy in Finnish history serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy and the enduring value of national independence.